Semiconductor memory device

ABSTRACT

A semiconductor memory device according to the present invention comprise a plurality of arrays each supplied with a common column address signal. In an selected array, the potential of a data line is set to a potential corresponding to a potential supplied to a corresponding bit line in response to the potential of the bit line, the potential of the corresponding column address signal and the potential of a terminal. In non-selected array other than the selected array at this time, since the potential of a terminal in the non-selected array is set to a potential different from that of the terminal in the selected array, the potential of the data line remains unchanged irrespective of the column address signal.

This is a division of application Ser. No. 08/542,221 filed Oct. 12, 1995 now U.S. Pat. No. 5,699,316.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. Field of the Invention

The present invention relates to a semiconductor memory devices.

2. Description of the Related Art

In the conventional semiconductor memory device, a plurality of memory cells arranged in matrix form are divided into a plurality of blocks (hereinafter called "arrays"). In this type of semiconductor memory device, various operations such as a data reading operation, etc. are carried out in array units.

Conventional semiconductor memory device has output circuits each of which supplies data corresponding to data supplied from a memory cell to its corresponding bit line to a data line in response to a column address signal sent to one of the column address lines. The output circuit comprises two transistors series-connected between a terminal supplied with a ground potential and the data line. A control electrode of one of the two transistors is electrically connected to its corresponding bit line. A control electrode of the other thereof is electrically connected to its corresponding column address line.

When data stored in a memory cell, which has been supplied to a bit line, is a "1", for example, a transistor connected to the bit line is turned ON and a transistor supplied with a column address signal is turned ON in response to the column address signal. Thus, the data line is reduced in potential. As a result, data corresponding to the data "1" supplied to the bit line, is supplied to the data line. On the other hand, when the data referred to above is a "0", the transistor connected to the bit line is turned OFF. Thus, the potential of the data line is maintained as it is. As a result, data corresponding to the data "0" of the memory cell, which has been supplied to the bit line, is sent to the data line.

According to the conventional semiconductor memory device as described above, the above operations are performed by the selected array alone. It is therefore possible to reduce power consumption of the whole semiconductor memory device.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

An object of the present invention is to provide a semiconductor memory device which provides less power consumption. The semiconductor memory device according to the present invention comprises a plurality of arrays and a decoder which selects some or any one of the arrays. The each array includes a row address line, a memory cell connected to the row address line, a bit line being supplied with data stored in the memory cell when the row address line is selected, a data line, a column address line being inputted with a column address signal, a terminal, and an output circuit connected to the data line, the terminal, the column address line and the bit line and having a first state for setting a preset potential of the data line to a potential corresponding to a potential of the bit line and a second state for holding the preset potential of the data line constant.

The column address lines of the plurality of arrays are mutually connected to one another. In the semiconductor memory device, the output circuit of the array selected by the decoder is set to the first state and the output circuit of non-selected array is maintained at the second state.

Another object of the present invention is to provide a semiconductor memory device which provide a higher operating speed. In order to achieve the above object, the semiconductor memory device is provided with a data line potential setting circuits connected to a data line at plural places thereof so as to correspond to first and second output circuits connected between the data line and a data transfer enable line and adapted to supply a potential to the data line or provided with a potential setting circuits connected to the data transfer enable line at plural places thereof and adapted to supply a potential to the data transfer enable line.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

While the specification concludes with claims particularly pointing out and distinctly claiming the subject matter which is regarded as the invention, it is believed that the invention, the objects and features of the invention and further objects, features and advantages thereof will be better understood from the following description taken in connection with the accompanying drawings in which:

FIG. 1 is a fragmentary circuit diagram showing a sense amplifier array employed in a first embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 2 is a view schematically illustrating a configuration of a semiconductor memory device according to the present invention;

FIG. 3 is a view schematically depicting a configuration of an array AR_(m) ;

FIG. 4 is a fragmentary circuit diagram showing a sense amplifier array employed in a second embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 5 is a fragmentary circuit diagram illustrating a sense amplifier array employed in a third embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 6 is a fragmentary circuit diagram depicting a sense amplifier array employed in a fourth embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 7 is a fragmentary circuit diagram showing a sense amplifier array employed in a fifth embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 8 is a timing chart for describing the operation of the sense amplifier array shown in FIG. 1; and

FIG. 9 is a timing chart for describing the operation of the sense amplifier array shown in FIG. 6.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

Preferred embodiments of the present invention will hereinafter be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

FIG. 2 is a view schematically showing a configuration of a semiconductor memory device according to a first embodiment of the present invention.

The semiconductor memory device comprises a plurality of arrays AR₀ through AR_(m) and decoder circuits D1 and D2.

Column address lines CL₀, ˜, CL_(i) are respectively connected to the decoder circuit D1 and the arrays AR₀ through AR_(m). The decoder circuit D1 serves as a circuit for selecting a desired column address line from the column address lines CL₀, ˜, CL_(i).

Each of array selection signal lines AS₀, ˜, AS_(m) are electrically connected to the decoder circuit D2, and each of array selection signals are electrically connected to a corresponding array of the arrays AR₀ through AR_(m). The decoder circuit D2 serves as a circuit for selecting a desired array selection signal line from the array selection signal lines AS₀, ˜, AS_(m) so as to select a desired array.

A plurality of data lines DB are electrically connected to their corresponding arrays AR₀, ˜, AR_(m).

FIG. 3 is a view schematically showing a configuration of the array AR_(m). The AR_(m) will be described below with reference to FIG. 3.

The array AR_(m) comprises a decoder circuit D3, a memory cell array MAR having a plurality of memory cells arranged in matrix form, a sense amplifier array SAR composed of a plurality of sense amplifiers and a sense amplifier control circuit, and a switching circuit SW electrically connected between the sense amplifier array SAR and a data line DB.

The decoder circuit D3 is electrically connected to the memory cell array MAR through a plurality of row address lines WL₀, ˜, WL_(m). The decoder circuit D3 is electrically connected to the decoder circuit D2 through the array selection signal line AS_(m). Further, the decoder circuit D3 serves as a circuit for selecting a row address line corresponding to an input row address when the array selection signal line AS_(m) is selected.

The memory cell array MAR is electrically connected to the sense amplifier array SAR through a plurality of bit lines BL₀, ˜, BL_(i) . A brief description will now be made of a circuit operation of the memory cell array MAR. When the decoder circuit D3 selects one row address line, a plurality of data stored in a plurality of memory cells connected to the selected row address line are supplied to their corresponding bit lines. Since the individual bit lines are electrically connected to the sense amplifier array SAR, the data stored in the respective memory cells connected to the selected row address line are transferred to the sense amplifier array SAR.

The sense amplifier array SAR is electrically connected to the decoder circuit D1 through the column address lines CL₀, ˜, CL_(i). Further, the sense amplifier array SAR is electrically connected to the decoder circuit D2 through the array selection signal line AS_(m). Furthermore, the sense amplifier array SAR is electrically connected to the switching circuit SW through data lines SDB and SDB. The sense amplifier array SAR comprises a plurality of sense amplifiers composed of sense latch circuits and output circuits and connected to their corresponding bit line pairs, and a sense amplifier control circuit. Each of the sense latch circuits amplifies data stored in a memory cell, which has been supplied to its corresponding bit line. Each of the output circuits outputs data corresponding data stored in a memory cell, which has been supplied to a bit line corresponding to a column address line selected by the decoder circuit D1, to the data lines SDB and SDB.

The switching circuit SW is electrically connected to the sense amplifier array SAR through the data lines SDB and SDB. The switching circuit SW controls the transfer of data corresponding to the data sent to the data lines SDB or SDB to the data line DB.

The sense amplifier array SAR and the decoder D3 included in each of the arrays AR₀ through AR_(m) are electrically connected to their corresponding array selection signal line of the array selection signal lines AS₀ through AS_(m). Since inner circuit configurations of the respective arrays AR₀ through AR_(m) are substantially identical to one another, the arrays other than the array AR_(m) which has been described above, will not be described.

FIG. 1 is a fragmentary circuit diagram showing a sense amplifier array employed in the first embodiment of the present invention. The first embodiment will be described below with reference to FIG. 1.

FIG. 1 is a fragmentary circuit diagram of a sense amplifier array SAR which comprises a plurality of sense amplifiers SA₀, ˜, SA_(i) and a sense amplifier control circuit SAC. Incidentally,. a memory cell array MAR is also described to provide easy understanding of the relationship of correspondence between memory cells and sense amplifiers.

The memory cell array MAR includes a plurality of memory cells MC₀₀ through MC_(im-1) electrically connected to their corresponding bit lines of bit lines BL₀, ˜, BL_(j), ˜, BL_(i) provided on an alternate basis counting from the bit line BL₀ and electrically connected to their corresponding row address lines of row address lines WL₀, WL₂, ˜, WL_(m-1) provided on an alternate basis counting from the row address line WL₀. Further, the memory cell array MAR includes a plurality of memory cells MC₀₁, ˜, MC_(im) electrically connected to their corresponding bit lines of bit lines BL₀ , ˜, BL_(j) , ˜, BL_(i) provided on an alternate basis counting from the bit line BL₀ and electrically connected to their corresponding row address lines of row address lines WL₁, WL₃ , ˜, WL_(m) provided on an alternate basis counting from the row address line WL₁.

The bit line pair (BL₀ and BL₀ ) is electrically connected to its corresponding sense amplifier SA₀. Similarly, the bit lines of the bit line pairs (BL₁ and BL₁ )˜(BL_(i) and BL_(i) ) are electrically connected to their corresponding sense amplifiers SA₁, ˜, SA_(i). The sense amplifiers SA₀ through SA_(i) are electrically connected to their corresponding column address lines CL₀, ˜, CL_(i).

The sense amplifier SA_(j) will now be described.

The sense amplifier SA_(j) comprises a sense latch circuit and an output circuit. The sense latch circuit comprises N-channel type Metal Oxide Semiconductor transistors (hereinafter called "NMOS transistors") MN₁ and MN₂ used for detection and amplification, P-channel type MOS transistors (hereinafter called "PMOS transistors") MP₁ and MP₂, and NMOS transistors MN₃ and MN₄ used for equalization of bit lines. The source of the NMOS transistor MN₁ is electrically connected to a sense latch terminal SLNT. The drain of the NMOS transistor MN₁ is electrically connected to the bit line BL_(j) and the gate thereof is electrically connected to the bit line BL_(j). The source of the NMOS transistor MN₂, is electrically connected to the sense latch terminal SLNT. The drain of the NMOS transistor MN₂ is electrically connected to the bit line BL_(j) and the gate thereof is electrically connected to the bit line BL_(j) . The source of the PMOS transistor MP₁ is electrically connected to a sense latch terminal SLPT. The drain of the PMOS transistor MP₁ is electrically connected to the bit line BL_(j) and the gate thereof is electrically connected to the bit line BL_(j). The source of the PMOS transistor MP₂ is electrically connected to the sense latch terminal SLPT. The drain of the PMOS transistor MP₂ is electrically connected to the bit line BL_(j) and the gate thereof is electrically connected to the bit line BL_(j) . The source of the NMOS transistor MN₃ is supplied with a potential of 1/2V_(CC). The drain of the NMOS transistor MN₃ is electrically connected to the bit line BL_(j) and the gate thereof is electrically connected to a sense latch circuit equalize EQT. The source of the NMOS transistor MN₄ is supplied with the potential of 1/2V_(CC). The drain of the NMOS transistor MN₄ is electrically connected to the bit line BL_(j) and the gate thereof is electrically connected to the sense latch circuit equalize terminal EQT.

The output circuit comprises N-channel type MOS transistors MN₅, MN₆, MN₇ and MN₈. The NMOS transistors NM₅ and MN₆ are series-connected between a data line SDB and a date transfer enable line DTEA. Further, the NMOS transistors MN₇ and MN₈ are series-connected between a data line SDB and the data transfer enable line DTEA. The column address line CL_(j) is electrically connected to the gate of the NMOS transistor MN₆ and the gate of the NMOS transistor MN₈. The gate of the NMOS transistor MN₅ is electrically connected to the bit line BL_(j) and the gate of the NMOS transistor MN₇ is electrically connected to the bit line BL_(j).

Each of the sense amplifiers SA₀, ˜, SA_(i) electrically connected to their corresponding bit lines of the bit line pairs (BL₀ and BL₀)˜(BL_(i) and BL_(i) ) is composed of NMOS transistors MN₁, MN₂, MN₃, MN₄, MN₅, MN₆, MN₇ and MN₈ and PMOS transistors MP₁ and MP₂ in a manner similar to the sense amplifier SA_(j). The drain of the transistor MN₁ of each of the sense amplifiers SA₀, ˜, SA_(i) is electrically connected to its corresponding bit line of the bit lines BL₀ , ˜, BL_(i) . The gate of the transistor MN₁ of each of the sense amplifiers SA₀, ˜, SA_(i) is electrically connected to its corresponding bit line of the bit lines BL₀, ˜, BL_(i). The drain of the transistor MN₂ of each of the sense amplifiers SA₀, ˜, SA_(i) is electrically connected to its corresponding bit line of the bit lines BL₀, ˜, BL_(i). The gate of the transistor MN₂ of each of the sense amplifiers SA₀, ˜, SA_(i) is electrically connected to its corresponding bit line of the bit lines (BL₀ , ˜,BL_(i) ). The drain of the transistor MP₁ of each of the sense amplifiers SA₀, ˜, SA_(i) is electrically connected to its corresponding bit line of the bit lines BL₀ , ˜, BL_(i) . The gate of the transistor MP₁ of each of the sense amplifiers SA₀, ˜, SA_(i) is electrically connected to its corresponding bit line of the bit lines BL₀, ˜, BL_(i). The drain of the transistor MP₂ of each of the sense amplifiers SA₀, ˜, SA_(i) is electrically connected to its corresponding bit line of the bit lines BL₀, ˜, BL_(i). The gate of the transistor MP₂ of each of the sense amplifiers SA₀, ˜, SA_(i) is electrically connected to its corresponding bit line of the bit lines BL₀ , ˜, BL_(i) . The gate of the transistor MN₅ of each of the sense amplifiers SA₀, ˜, SA_(i) is electrically connected to its corresponding bit line of the bit lines BL₀, ˜, BL_(i). The gate of the transistor MN₇ of each of the sense amplifiers SA₀, ˜, SA_(i) is electrically connected to its corresponding bit line of the bit lines BL₀, ˜, BL_(i). The drain of the transistor MN₃ of each of the sense amplifiers SA₀, ˜, SA_(i) is electrically connected to its corresponding bit line of the bit lines BL₀ , ˜, BL_(i) . The drain of the transistor MN₄ of each of the sense amplifiers SA₀, ˜, SA_(i) is electrically connected to its corresponding bit line of the bit lines BL₀, ˜, BL_(i). The gate of the transistor MN₆ of each of the sense amplifiers SA₀, ˜, SA_(i) is electrically connected to its corresponding column address line of the column address lines CL₀, ˜, CL_(i). The gate of the transistor MN₈ of each of the sense amplifiers SA₀, ˜, SA_(i) is electrically connected to its corresponding column address line of the column address lines CL₀, ˜, CL_(i). Since electrical connections of the individual sense amplifiers SA₀, ˜, SA_(i), which are other than the electrical connections referred to above, are similar to those made by the sense amplifier SA_(j), their description will be omitted.

A sense amplifier control circuit SAC will now be described.

The sense amplifier control circuit SAC comprises NMOS transistors MN₉, MN₁₀, MN₁₁, MN₁₂, MN₁₃, a PMOS transistor MP₃ and generating circuits SPG, EQG, SNG and DTEG.

The drain and gate of the NMOS transistor MN₉ are supplied with a power source potential V_(CC). The source of the NMOS transistor MN₉ is electrically connected to the data line SDB. The drain and gate of the NMOS transistor MN₁₀ are supplied with the power source potential V_(CC). The source of the NMOS transistor NM₁₀ is electrically connected to the data line SDB.

The generating circuit DTEG is of a circuit for supplying a data transfer enable signal DTE to a data transfer enable terminal DTET to which the data transfer enable line DTEA is connected. The generating circuit SNG is of a circuit for supplying an N-channel sense latch enable signal SN to an N-channel sense latch enable terminal SNT. The generating circuit EQG is of a circuit for supplying a sense latch circuit equalizing signal EQ to the sense latch circuit equalize terminal EQT. The generating circuit SPG is of a circuit for supplying a P-channel sense latch enable signal SP to a P-channel sense latch activation or enable terminal SPT. The source of the PMOS transistor MP₃ is supplied with the power source potential V_(CC). The drain of the PMOS transistor MP₃ is electrically connected to the sense latch terminal SLPT. The gate of the PMOS transistor MP₃ is electrically connected to the P-channel sense latch enable terminal SPT. The source of the NMOS transistor MN₁₁ is supplied with the potential of 1/2V_(CC). The drain of the NMOS transistor NM₁₁ is electrically connected to the sense latch terminal SLPT. The gate of the NMOS transistor NM₁₁ is electrically connected to the sense latch circuit equalize terminal EQT. The source of the NMOS transistor MN₁₂ is supplied with the potential of 1/2V_(CC). The drain of the NMOS transistor MN₁₂ is electrically connected to the sense latch terminal SLNT. The gate of the NMOS transistor MN₁₂ is electrically connected to the sense latch circuit equalize terminal EQT. The source of the NMOS transistor MN₁₃ is supplied with a ground potential V_(SS). The drain of the NMOS transistor MN₁₃ is electrically connected to the sense latch terminal SLNT. The gate of the NMOS transistor MN₁₃ is electrically connected to the N-channel sense latch enable terminal SNT.

A reading operation of the semiconductor memory device shown in FIGS. 1, 2 and 3 will now be described with reference to a timing chart shown in FIG. 8, for describing the operation of the sense amplifier array employed in the first embodiment of the present invention.

Prior to the reading operation, the potential of each of the column address lines CL₀, ˜, CL_(i) is set to the ground potential V_(SS). The potential of each of the row address lines WL₀, ˜, WL_(m) is set to the ground potential. The potential of the sense latch circuit equalizing signal EQ is set to the power source potential V_(CC). The potential of the sense latch circuit equalize terminal EQT is set to the power source potential V_(CC). The potential of the P-channel sense latch enable signal SP is set to the power source potential V_(CC). The potential of the P-channel sense latch enable terminal SPT is set to the power source potential V_(CC). The potential of the N-channel sense latch enable signal SN is set to the ground potential V_(SS). The potential of the N-channel sense latch enable terminal SNT is set to the ground potential V_(SS). The transistor MN₁₁ is turned ON so that the potential of sense latch terminal SLPT is set to the potential of 1/2V_(CC). The transistor MN₁₂ is turned ON so that the potential of the sense latch terminal SLNT is set to the potential of 1/2V_(CC). The transistor MN₄ of the corresponding sense amplifier of the sense amplifiers SA₀, ˜, SA_(i) is turned ON so that the potential of each of the bit lines BL₀, ˜, BL_(i) is set to the potential of 1/2V_(CC). The transistor MN₃ of the corresponding sense amplifier of the sense amplifiers SA₀, ˜, SA_(i) is turned ON so that the potential of each of the bit lines BL₀ , ˜, BL_(i) is set to the potential of 1/2V_(CC). The potential of the data transfer enable signal DTE is set to the power source potential V_(CC). The potential of the data transfer enable terminal DTET is set to the power source potential V_(CC). The data line SDB is set to a potential lowered by a threshold voltage V_(t) of the NMOS transistor MN₉ from the power source potential V_(CC). The data line SDB is set to a potential reduced by a threshold voltage V_(t) of the NMOS transistor MN₁₀ from the power source potential V_(CC). This state is called an "equalized state".

A circuit operation for reading data of "1" stored in a memory cell MC_(j1) of the array AR_(m) will now be described as an example.

An array selection signal line AS_(m) is first selected by the decoder circuit D2. Correspondingly, the potential of the sense latch circuit equalizing signal EQ developed in the array AR_(m) is changed to the ground potential V_(SS). In doing so, the transistors MN₃ and MN₄ of each of the sense amplifiers SA₀, ˜, SA_(i) are turned OFF so that the potential of the row address line WL₁ selected by the decoder circuit D3 is changed to a potential increased by a threshold voltage V_(t) of NMOS transistor from the power source potential V_(CC). With the change of the potential of the row address line WL₁ to the increased potential, data stored in the individual memory cells MC₀₁, ˜, MC_(j1), ˜, MC_(i1) connected to the row address line WL₁ are supplied to their corresponding bit lines BL₀ , ˜, BL_(j) , ˜, BL_(i) . Thus, small differences in potential are developed between the respective bit line pairs (BL₀ and BL₀ ), ˜, (BL_(i) and BL_(i) ). Next, the potential of the data transfer enable signal DTE is changed to the ground potential V_(SS). Further, the potential of the P-channel sense latch enable signal SP is changed to the ground potential V_(SS). Furthermore, the N-channel sense latch enable signal SN is changed to the V_(CC) potential. Thus, the PMOS transistor MP₃ is turned ON so that the potential of the sense latch terminal SLPT is changed to the power source potential V_(CC). Further, the NMOS transistor MN₁₃ is turned ON so that the potential of the sense latch terminal SLNT is changed to the ground potential V_(SS). With the change of the sense latch terminals SLPT and SLNT to the power source potential V_(CC) and the ground potential V_(SS), the individual sense latch circuits of the sense amplifiers SA₀, ˜, SA_(j) are driven. Thus, the difference in potential between each of the bit line pairs (BL₀ and BL₀ ), ˜, (BL_(i) and BL_(i) ) is amplified. As a result, the potential of the BL_(j) supplied with a high level potential is brought to the power source potential V_(CC) and the potential of the bit line BL_(j) is brought to the ground potential V_(SS). Next, the column address line CL_(j) is selected by the decoder circuit D1. The potential of the selected column address line CL_(j) is changed to the power source potential V_(CC). With the change of the potentials of the bit line BL_(j) and the column address line CL_(j) to the power source potential V_(CC), the NMOS transistors MN₅ and MN₆ of the sense amplifier SA_(j) are turned ON. Thus, the potential of the data line SDB is reduced. With the change of the potential of the bit line BL_(j) to the ground potential V_(SS) on the other hand, the transistor MN₇ is turned OFF. As a result, the data line SDB is maintained at the power source potential V_(CC). Thus, data corresponding to the data stored in the memory cell MC_(j1) is supplied to the data line SDB.

The state of each of the arrays, which have not been selected through the corresponding array selection signal lines, will now be described. The potential of a sense latch circuit equalizing signal EQ is set to the power source potential V_(CC). The potential of each of the row lines WL₀, ˜, WL_(i) is set to the ground potential V_(SS). The potential of a P-channel sense latch enable signal SP is set to the power source potential V_(CC). The potential of an N-channel sense latch enable signal SN is set to the ground potential V_(SS). A transistor MN₁₁ is turned ON so that the potential of a sense latch terminal SLPT is set to a potential of 1/2V_(CC). A transistor MN₁₂ is turned ON so that the potential of a sense latch terminal SLNT is set to the potential of 1/2V_(CC). A transistor MN₄ of a corresponding sense amplifier of the sense amplifiers SA₀, ˜, SA_(i) is turned ON so that the potential of each of the bit lines BL₀, ˜, BL_(i) is set to the potential of 1/2V_(CC). A transistor MN₃ of a corresponding sense amplifier of the sense amplifiers SA₀, ˜, SA_(j) is turned ON so that the potential of each of the bit lines BL₀ , ˜, BL_(i) is set to the potential of 1/2V_(CC). The potential of a data transfer enable signal DTE is set to the power source potential V_(CC). A data line SDB is set to a potential reduced by a threshold voltage V_(t) of an NMOS transistor MN₉ from the power source potential V_(CC). A data line SDB is set to a potential reduced by a threshold voltage V_(t) of an NMOS transistor MN₁₀ from the power source potential V_(CC).

Even if a column address line CL_(j) is selected in each array held in the non-selected state, an NMOS transistor MN₅ and an NMOS transistor MN₇ of a sense amplifier SA_(j) connected to the column address line CL_(j) are not turned ON. This is because the potential of the data transfer enable signal DTE is set to the power source potential V_(CC) and the potential of the bit line pair BL_(j) and BL_(j) connected to the sense amplifier SA_(j) is set to the potential of 1/2V_(CC). Namely, each of the transistors MN₅ and MN₇ is in an OFF state. Thus, no current flows through the transistor MN₅. Similarly, no current flows through the transistor MN₇. As a result, power consumption is reduced. Here, the level of the potential of the data transfer enable signal DTE employed in the non-selected array, i.e., the potential of the data transfer enable terminal DTET may be a potential that does not allow the transistors MN₅ and MN₇ to turn ON. Namely, since the potential of the bit line pair being in the equalized state is of the 1/2V_(CC), the potential of the data transfer enable terminal DTET may be a potential higher than 1/2V_(CC) -threshold voltage V_(t) (where V_(t) : threshold voltage of each of transistors MN₅ and MN₇).

FIG. 4 is a fragmentary circuit diagram showing a sense amplifier array employed in a second embodiment of the present invention. The second embodiment will be described below with reference to FIG. 4. The same elements of structure as those shown in FIG. 1 or the elements of structure similar to those shown in FIG. 1 are identified by like reference numerals and their description will therefore be omitted.

In the first embodiment, the sources of the transistors MN₅ and MN₇ of each of the sense amplifiers SA₀, ˜, SA_(i) have been connected to the data transfer enable terminal DTET through the data transfer enable line DTEA. In the second embodiment to the contrary, the sources of transistors MN₅ and MN₇ of each of sense amplifiers SA₀, ˜, SA_(i) are electrically connected to a sense latch terminal SLNT. No generating circuit DTEG is provided in the second embodiment.

A reading operation of the second embodiment will now be described. In a selected array, the potential of a sense latch terminal SLNT is reduced in a manner similar to the data transfer enable terminal DTET employed in the first embodiment. Thus, each output circuit is activated in the same manner as that employed in the first embodiment. In non-selected each array, the potential of a sense latch terminal SLNT is set to a potential of 1/2V_(CC). Thus, the potentials of the sources of the transistors MN₅ and MN₇ of each of the sense amplifiers SA₀, ˜, SA_(j) are respectively set to the potential of 1/2V_(CC). Further, the potential of each of bit lines BL₀, ˜, BL_(j), BL_(j) , ˜, BL_(i) is set to the potential of 1/2V_(CC). Therefore, the transistors MN₅ and MN₇ of each of the sense amplifiers SA₀, ˜, SA_(j) are brought into an OFF state. Thus, even if a column address line CL_(j) is selected, no current flows through the transistor MN₅ of the sense amplifier SA_(j). Further, no current flows through the transistor MN₇ of the sense amplifier SA_(j). Since the sources of the transistors MN₅ and MN₇ of each of the sense amplifiers SA₀, ˜, SA_(i) are electrically connected to the sense latch terminal SLNT, the generating circuit DTEG becomes unnecessary in the second embodiment. Accordingly, the second embodiment can bring about advantageous effects that logic and layout designs become easy as well as advantageous effects obtained in the first embodiment.

FIG. 5 is a fragmentary circuit diagram showing a sense amplifier array employed in a third embodiment of the present invention. The third embodiment will be described below with reference to FIG. 5. The same elements of structure as those shown in FIG. 1 or the elements of structure similar to those shown in FIG. 1 are identified by like reference numerals and their description will therefore be omitted.

A generating circuit DTEG is not provided in the third embodiment. An inverter INV0 and a pair of NMOS transistors MN₉ and MN₁₀ are provided at plural places within a sense amplifier array SAR. The placement and connections of the inverters INV0 and the NMOS transistors MN₉ and MN₁₀ will now be described in detail.

The inverters INV0 are disposed in the neighborhood of their corresponding sense amplifier groups of sense amplifier groups each comprised of an appropriate number of sense amplifiers. The output of each inverter INV0 is electrically connected to a data transfer enable line DTEA provided in the vicinity of its corresponding sense amplifier group. The input of each inverter INV0 is electrically connected to an N-channel sense latch enable terminal SNT. The NMOS transistors MN₁₀ are provided in the neighborhood of their corresponding sense amplifier groups of the sense amplifier groups. One ends of the individual NMOS transistors MN₁₀ are electrically connected to their corresponding data lines SDB provided in the neighborhood of the corresponding sense amplifier groups. The NMOS transistors MN₉ are provided in the neighborhood of their corresponding sense amplifier groups of the sense amplifier groups. One end of each NMOS transistor MN₉ is electrically connected to its corresponding data line SDB in the vicinity of the corresponding sense amplifier group.

In the third embodiment, a signal obtained by inverting an N-channel sense latch enable signal SN is supplied to the data transfer enable line DTEA through the plurality of inverters INV0. Thus, each output circuit performs an output operation substantially similar to the first embodiment.

Comparisons will now be made between advantageous effects brought about by the third embodiment and those obtained in the first embodiment.

In the semiconductor memory device according to the first embodiment, the number of the sense amplifiers SA₀ through SA_(i) is regarded as being provided in plural form. In the first embodiment, junction points between the sense amplifier SA₀ and the data lines are provided close to junction point between the NMOS transistors MN₉ and the data lines SDB and junction point between NMOS transistors MN₁₀ and the data lines SDB than junction points between the sense amplifier SA_(j) and the data lines SDB and SDB.

Thus, if a comparison is made between the case where the NMOS transistors MN₅ and MN₆ of the sense amplifier SA₀ are turned ON and the potential of the data line SDB is reduced, for example, and the case where the NMOS transistors MN₅ and MN₆ of the sense amplifier SA_(i) are turned ON and the potential of the data line SDB is reduced, then the latter makes a path over which the current flows along the data line SDB longer. Wiring resistances are included in the data lines. Thus, when the sense amplifier SA_(i) is driven and the potential of the data line SDB is reduced, the potential of a portion near the junction point at which the sense amplifier SA_(i) is connected to the data line SDB is greatly reduced as compared with the case where the sense amplifier SA₀ is driven and the potential of the data line SDB is lowered.

In the third embodiment on the other hand, the transistors MN₉ and MN₁₀ are disposed at plural places within the sense amplifier array SAR. Thus, if a comparison is made between the case where a sense amplifier SA_(i) is driven and the potential of a data line is reduced in the third embodiment, for example, and the case where the sense amplifier SA_(i) is driven and the potential of the data line is reduced in the first embodiment, then the former can bring about a less reduction in the potential of the neighboring data line connected to the sense amplifier SA_(i). Thus, since the potential on the data line is not greatly reduced in the third embodiment, the semiconductor memory device can be activated at high speed upon reading the next data.

In the first embodiment, the data transfer enable line DTEA is electrically connected to the data transfer enable terminal DTET supplied with the data transfer enable signal DTE. The sense amplifier SA₀ is electrically connected to the data transfer enable line DTEA at junction points relatively near the data transfer enable terminal DTET. Further, the sense amplifier SA_(i) is electrically connected to the data transfer enable line DTEA at junction points spaced away from the data transfer enable terminal DTET. Therefore, if a comparison is made between the case where the transistors MN₅ and MN₆ of the sense amplifier SA₀ disposed relatively close to the data transfer enable terminal DTET are turned ON and the potential of the data line SDB is reduced and the case where the transistors MN₅ and MN₆ of the sense amplifier SA_(i) disposed away from the data transfer enable terminal DTET are turned ON and the potential of the data line SDB is reduced, then the latter makes longer a path over which the current flows along the data transfer enable line DTEA. Since wiring resistances are included in the data transfer enable line DTEA here, the potential of the source of the transistor MN₅ in the sense amplifier SA_(i) is raised when the sense amplifier SA_(i) is driven and the data line SDB is reduced in potential. Therefore, the transistor MN₅ is hard to turn ON and the operation of reducing the potential on the data line SDB becomes slow.

Since the inverters are located in the plural places of the sense amplifier array so as to correspond to the appropriate number of sense amplifier groups in the third embodiment, a path over which the current flows along the data transfer enable line DTEA, is shortened when the potential of the data line SDB or SDB is lowered. Thus, the potentials of the sources of NMOS transistors MN₅ and MN₇ are respectively reduced to a potential enough to turn ON the NMOS transistors MN₅ and MN₇. As a result, the potential on each data line can be lowered at high speed. Further, since each inverter INV0 is electrically connected between the data transfer enable line DTEA and the N-channel sense latch enable terminal SNT, it is unnecessary to provide a generating circuit DTEG. Therefore, logic and layout designs can be easily carried out.

FIG. 6 is a fragmentary circuit diagram showing a sense amplifier array employed in a fourth embodiment of the present invention. The fourth embodiment will be described below with reference to FIG. 6. The same elements of structure as those shown in FIG. 1 or the elements of structure similar to those shown in FIG. 1 are identified by like reference numerals and their description will therefore be omitted.

Referring to FIG. 6, the drain of a data line pull-down transistor MN₁₄ is electrically connected to a data line SDB and the source thereof is supplied with a ground potential V_(SS). The gate of the transistor MN₁₄ is supplied with a data transfer enable signal DTE. The drain of a data line pull-down transistor MN₁₅ is electrically connected to a data line SDB and the source thereof is supplied with the ground potential V_(SS). The gate of the transistor MN₁₅ is supplied with the data transfer enable signal DTE. In the first embodiment, the gates of the transistors MN₉ and MN₁₀ are supplied with the power source potential V_(CC). In the fourth embodiment, however, the gates of transistors MN₉ and MN₁₀ are electrically connected to an output terminal of an inverter INV0. Further, an input terminal of the inverter INV0 is electrically connected to a generating circuit DTEG and is supplied with the data transfer enable signal DTE. Further, a data transfer enable line DTEA is electrically connected to the ground potential V_(SS).

A reading operation of the sense amplifier array employed in the fourth embodiment of the present invention will now be described with reference to a timing chart shown in FIG. 9.

Prior to the reading operation, the potential of each of column address lines CL₀, ˜, CL_(i) is set to the ground potential V_(SS). The potential of a sense latch circuit equalizing signal EQ is set to the power source potential V_(CC) and the potential of a sense latch circuit equalize terminal EQT is set to the power source potential V_(CC). The potential of a P-channel sense latch enable signal SP is se to the power source potential V_(CC) and the potential of a P-channel sense latch enable terminal SPT is set to the power source potential V_(CC). The potential of an N-channel sense latch enable signal SN is set to the ground potential V_(SS) and the potential of an N-channel sense latch enable terminal SNT is set to the ground potential V_(SS). NMOS transistors MN₁₁ and MN₁₂ are turned ON so that the potentials of the sense latch terminals SLPT and SLNT are respectively set to a potential of 1/2V_(CC). A transistor MN₄ of each of sense amplifiers SA₀ through SA_(i) is turned ON so that the potential of each of bit lines BL₀ through BL_(i) is set to the potential of 1/2V_(CC). A transistor MN₃ of each of sense amplifiers SA₀ through SA_(j) is turned ON so that the potential of each of bit lines BL₀ through BL_(i) is set to the potential of 1/2V_(CC). The potential of the data transfer enable signal DTE is set to the power source potential V_(CC). Thus, the potentials of the data lines SDB and SDB are set to the ground potential V_(SS). This state is called an "equalized state".

A circuit operation for reading data of "1" stored in a memory cell MC_(j1) of an array AR_(m) will now be described.

The circuit operation of the selected array AR_(m) will be described below.

When an array selection signal line AS_(m) is first selected by a decoder circuit D2, the potential of the sense latch circuit equalizing signal EQ developed in the array AR_(m) is changed to the ground potential V_(SS). Further, the potential of a row address line WL₁ selected by a decoder circuit D3 is changed to a potential increased by a threshold voltage V_(t) of each NMOS transistor from the power source potential V_(CC). With the change of the potential of the data transfer enable signal DTE to the ground potential V_(SS), the data line pull-down NMOS transistors MN₁₄ and MN₁₅ are turned OFF and the data line pull-up transistors MN₉ and MN₁₀ are turned ON to thereby change the potential of the data line pair SDB and SDB to a potential reduced by a threshold voltage V_(t) of each NMOS transistor from the power source potential V_(CC). With the transition from the present potential of the row address line WL₁ to the increased potential, data stored in individual memory cells MC₀₁, ˜, MC_(j1), ˜, MC_(i1) connected to the row address line WL₁ are supplied to their corresponding bit lines BL₀ , ˜, BL_(j) , ˜, BL_(i) . Thus, small differences in potential are developed between the respective bit line pairs (BL₀ and BL_(O) ), ˜, (BL_(j) and BL_(j) ), ˜, (BL_(i) and BL_(j) ). Next, the potential of the P-channel sense latch enable signal SP is changed to the ground potential V_(SS). Further, the potential of the N-channel sense latch enable signal SN is changed to the ground potential V_(CC). Thus, a PMOS transistor MP₃ is turned ON and the potential of the sense latch terminal SLPT is changed to the power source potential V_(CC). Further, an NMOS transistor MN₁₃ is turned ON so that the potential of the sense latch terminal SLNT is changed to the ground potential V_(SS). The sense latch terminals SLPT and SLNT are respectively changed to the power source potential V_(CC) and the ground potential V_(SS) so that individual sense latch circuits of the sense amplifiers SA₀, ˜, SA_(j), ˜, SA_(i) are driven. As a result, the difference in potential between each of the bit line pairs (BL₀ and BL₀ ), ˜, (BL_(j) and BL_(j) ), ˜, (BL_(i) and BL_(i) ) is amplified.

Thus, the potential of the bit line BL_(j) supplied with the data of "1" is brought to the power source potential V_(CC) and the potential of the bit line BL_(j) is brought to the ground potential V_(SS). When a column address line CL_(j) is next selected by a decoder circuit D1, the potential of the selected column address line CL_(j) is changed to the power source potential V_(CC). With the transition from the present potentials of the bit line BL_(j) and the column address line CL_(j) to the power source potential V_(CC), NMOS transistors MN₅ and MN₆ of the sense amplifier SA_(j) are turned ON and hence the potential of the data line SDB is reduced to the ground potential V_(SS). On the other hand, since the potential of the bit line BL_(j) is changed to the ground potential V_(SS), the corresponding transistor MN₇ is turned OFF. As a result, the potential of the data line SDB remains unchanged. Thus, data corresponding to the data stored in the memory cell MC_(j1) is supplied to the data line SDB.

The state of each of the arrays, which are not selected through the corresponding array selection signal lines, will now be described. The potential of a sense latch circuit equalizing signal EQ is set to the power source potential V_(CC) level. The potential of a P-channel sense latch enable signal SP is set to the power potential V_(CC). The potential of an N-channel sense latch enable signal SN is set to the ground potential V_(SS). Transistors MN₁₁ and MN₁₂ are turned ON so that the potentials of sense latch terminals SLPT and SLNT are respectively set to a potential of 1/2V_(CC). A transistor MN₄ of a corresponding sense amplifier of sense amplifiers SA₀, ˜, SA_(i) is turned ON so that the potential of each of bit lines BL₀, ˜, BL_(i) is set to the potential of 1/2V_(CC). A transistor MN₃ of a corresponding sense amplifier of the sense amplifiers SA₀, ˜, SA_(i) is turned ON so that the potential of each of bit lines BL₀ , ˜, BL_(i) is set to the potential of 1/2V_(CC). The potential of a data transfer enable signal DTE is set to the power source potential V_(CC). The potential of a data line SDB is set to the ground potential V_(SS). The potential of a data line SDB is set to the ground potential V_(SS). The potential of each of row address lines WL₀ through WL_(i) is set to the ground potential V_(SS). The potential of a data transfer enable line DTEA is set to the ground potential V_(SS).

Now, consider that a column address line CL_(j) is selected and transistors MN₆ and MN₈ of a sense amplifier SA_(j) are turned ON in this condition. Since the data lines SDB and SDB and the data transfer enable line DTEA are maintained at the ground potential V_(SS), no current flows between the NMOS transistors MN₅ and MN₆ of the sense amplifier SA_(j). Further, the current does not flow between the NMOS transistors MN₇ and MN₈ of the sense amplifier SA_(j).

In the fourth embodiment, the data can be supplied to the data line pair at high speed as compared with the first embodiment. The reason will be described as follows:

In the first embodiment, the potential of each of the bit lines BL₀, ˜, BL_(i) is set substantially to the potential of 1/2V_(CC) when the potential of the data transfer enable signal DTE is changed to the ground potential V_(SS). Thus, when the potential of the data transfer enable line DTEA is reduced by V_(t) from the potential of 1/2V_(CC), the transistors MN₅ and MN₇ of each of the sense amplifiers SA₀ through SA_(i) are turned ON. Therefore, capacitances between the source and gates of the transistors MN₅ and MN₇ of each of the sense amplifiers SA₀ through SA_(i) are added to the data transfer enable line DTEA.

Let's now consider where the gate of the transistor MN₆ of each of the sense amplifiers SA₀, ˜, SA_(i) is electrically connected to its corresponding bit line of the bit lines BL_(O) , ˜, BL_(i) , the gate of the transistor MN₈ of each of the sense amplifiers SA₀, ˜, SA_(i) is electrically connected to its corresponding bit line of the bit lines BL₀, ˜, BL_(i), the transistor MN₅ of each of the sense amplifiers SA₀, ˜, SA_(i) is electrically connected to its corresponding column address line of the column address lines CL₀, ˜, CL_(i), and the transistor MN₇ of each of the sense amplifiers SA₀, ˜, SA_(i) is electrically connected to its corresponding column address line of the column address lines CL₀, ˜, CL_(i).

When the potential of the SDB is lowered, the potential of one bit line of each of the bit line pairs (BL₀ and BL₀ ), ˜, (BL_(i) and BL_(i) ) is brought to the power source potential V_(CC). Therefore, either one of the transistors MN₆ and MN₈ of each of the sense amplifiers SA₀, ˜, SA_(i) is turned ON. As a result, a capacitance is added to the data line SDB.

In the fourth embodiment to the contrary, the potentials of the sources of the transistors MN₅ and MN₇ of each of the sense amplifiers SA₀, ˜, SA_(i) are fixed to the ground potential V_(SS). The gates of the transistors MN₆ and MN₈ of each of the sense amplifiers SA₀, ˜, SA_(i) are electrically connected to their corresponding column address line of the column address lines CL₀, ˜, CL_(i). Since the potential of each of the column address lines CL₀, ˜, CL_(i) is of the ground potential V_(SS) when the potential of the data line SDB or SDB is changed to the potential reduced by V_(t) from the power source potential V_(CC), the transistors MN₆ and MN₈ of each of the sense amplifiers SA₀, ˜, SA_(i) are not turned ON. Thus, no capacitance is added to the data line SDB or /X/TO(SDB)at this time. Further, when the potential of the data line SDB is lowered, the potential of each column address line other than the column address line CL_(j) is set to the ground potential V_(SS). Thus, since the transistors MN₆ and MN₈ of each of the sense amplifiers SA₀, ˜, SA_(i) other than the sense amplifier SA_(j) are turned OFF, the capacitances of these transistors are not added to the data line SDB. As a result, the potential of the data line SDB is rapidly reduced.

FIG. 7 is a fragmentary circuit diagram showing a sense amplifier array employed in a fifth embodiment of the present invention. The fifth embodiment will be described below with reference to FIG. 7. The same elements of structure as those shown in FIG. 6 or the elements of structure similar to those shown in FIG. 6 are identified by like reference numerals and their description will therefore be omitted.

In the fifth embodiment, bit line pull-up transistors MN₉ and MN₁₀ are disposed at plural places within a sense amplifier array so as to correspond to an appropriate number of sense amplifier groups. Thus, when the potential of a data line SDB or SDB is lowered, a path over which the current flows along the data line, is shortened. The resistance is reduced by the shortened path. As a result, the potential of the data line SDB or SDB is not reduced to a potential than required. The semiconductor memory device according to the fifth embodiment can bring about an advantageous effect that it can be activated at high speed, as well as that obtained in the fourth embodiment.

In the first through fifth embodiments, the sense amplifier control circuit SAC is provided on the sense amplifier SA₀ side so that the sense amplifier SA₀ be opposed to the sense amplifier SA_(i). However, the sense amplifier control circuit SAC may be provided on the sense amplifier SA_(i) side.

In the first, second and third embodiments, the gates of the NMOS transistors MN₆ of the sense amplifiers SA₀, ˜, SA_(i) may be connected to their corresponding bit lines BL₀ , ˜, BL_(i) . Further, the gates of the NMOS transistors MN₈ of the sense amplifiers SA₀, ˜, SA_(i) may be connected to their corresponding bit lines BL₀, ˜, BL_(i). Furthermore, the gates of the NMOS transistors MN₅ and MN₇ of the sense amplifiers SA₀, ˜, SA_(i) may be connected to their corresponding column address lines CL₀, ˜, CL_(i).

In the second embodiment, the sources of the NMOS transistors MN₅ and MN₇ of the sense amplifiers SA₀, ˜, SA_(i) are electrically connected to their corresponding sense latch terminal SLNT. However, the sources of the NMOS transistors MN₅ and MN₇ may be connected to the P-channel sense latch enable terminal SPT or the sense latch circuit equalize terminal EQT.

In the fourth and fifth embodiments, the drains of the NMOS transistors MN₉ are respectively supplied with the power source potential V_(CC). The gates of the NMOS transistors MN₉ are electrically connected to the power source potential V_(CC) and the sources thereof are electrically connected to their corresponding data line SDB. Further, the drains of the NMOS transistors MN₁₀ are respectively supplied with the power source potential V_(CC). The gates of the NMOS transistors MN₁₀ are electrically connected to source potential and the source thereof are electrically connected to their corresponding data line SDB. However, the gates of the NMOS transistors MN₉ and the gates of the NMOS transistors MN₁₀ may be connected to the power source V_(CC). Further, the sources of the NMOS transistors MN₉ and the drains of the NMOS transistors MN₁₀ may be connected to the N-channel sense latch enable terminal SNT.

Although the input of the inverter INV0 has been connected to the sense latch circuit equalize terminal EQT in the fifth embodiment, the input thereof may be connected to the P-channel sense latch enable terminal SPT.

While the present invention has been described with reference to the illustrative embodiments, this description is not intended to be construed in a limiting sense. Various modifications of the illustrative embodiments, as well as other embodiments of the invention, will be apparent to those skilled in the art on reference to this description. It is therefore contemplated that the appended claims will cover any such modifications or embodiments as fall within the true scope of the invention. 

What is claimed is:
 1. A semiconductor memory device comprising:a first row address line; a first memory cell connected to said first row address line; a first bit line responsive to data stored in said first memory cell when said first row address line is selected; a data line having a first connecting portion and a second connecting portion; a first column address line supplied with a first column address signal; a second row address line; a second memory cell connected to said second row address line; a second bit line responsive to data stored in said second memory cell when said second row address line is selected; a second column address line supplied with a second column address signal; a data transfer enable line; a first output circuit connected to said first connecting portion, said data transfer enable line, said first column address line and said first bit line, said first output circuit setting said data line to a potential corresponding to the data stored in said first memory cell in response to a potential supplied to said first bit line, a potential supplied to said data transfer enable line and the first column address signal when the first bit line responds to said data stored in the first memory cell; a first data line potential setting circuit disposed in the neighborhood of the first connecting portion to supply the first potential to said data line; a second output circuit connected to said second connecting portion, said data transfer enable line, said second column address line and said second bit line, said second output circuit setting said data line to a potential corresponding to the data stored in said second memory cell in response to a potential supplied to said second bit line, the potential of said data transfer enable line and the second column address signal when the second bit line responds to said data stored in the second memory; and a second data line potential setting circuit disposed in the neighborhood of the second connecting portion to supply the first potential to said data line. 